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Amazing Cold Water Snorkeling Destinations

Amazing Cold Water Snorkeling Destinations

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on November 15, 2015

There’s no need to hang up your snorkel and mask during the winter months — there are plenty of places around the world that offer great cold water snorkeling adventures. Be it a wintertime getaway or even if you’re looking to plan your next summer holiday, here are some places that offer amazing cold water snorkeling opportunities.

Iceland – Silfra Thingvellir

This is a stunning spot where you can actually see where the North American and Eurasian continental plates of the earth come together. Called the Silfra Fissure, this is the only place in the world where you can snorkel or dive into such a geologic phenomenon. The two plates move together and apart about 2 cm per year.

The water clarity is also spectacular. Thanks to super cold temperatures (you’ll need a drysuit) that hover near freezing year round, and the water filtering through from nearby glaciers, this is a pristine environment of clear blue waters with over 100 meters visibility. The water is so pure you can even take a sip as you swim through.

Alaska – Ketchikan

Located on the southwestern shores of Alaska, south of Juneau, lies Ketchikan, a prime cold water snorkeling destination. Entering the water from a rocky shore, snorkelers in this part of Alaska will be treated to a wide array of sea life such as nudibranchs, mollusks, and crustaceans, as well as many varieties of fish and sea stars. Water surface temperatures range from about 65 degrees at the height of summer down to around 45 degrees in the wintertime. There are also steep underwater rock walls for freedivers to explore.

Norway – Spitsbergen

How would you like to snorkel with polar bears? You’ll definitely need a drysuit to explore the amazing ice formations in Spitsbergen. Seals, penguins, and marine creatures like anemones and colorful sea stars can also be found in these chilly waters. Touch an iceberg floating in the clear blue water that offers near infinite visibility.

In addition to the unique views beneath the surface, this is a stellar destination for what you’ll see above the water as well, like polar bears and reindeer.

Austria – Gruner See

Home to the famed “disappearing park” in Austria, Gruner See is a popular diving spot. As snow melts, the runoff fills the small lake, totally submerging the park and leaving a unique area to explore. Water depths are up to 40 feet in places, but that won’t stop you from seeing all this unusual site has to offer.There are many shallow areas for snorkelers to enjoy, and as with most cold water sites, visibility is incredible. Water temps are around 40 degrees at their warmest here.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro